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A stretched belt or a faulty belt tensioner are the most likely causes. I would recommend having the tensioner checked first by a YourMechanic technician. If the tensioner seems to be working properly, the belt is the next likely cause. If the tensioner is not working properly, have it replaced along with the belt to ensure proper function of both parts. Since these parts work very closely together to run air conditioning, power steering, alternators, and water pumps; it is a good idea to replace them both at once.

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What others are asking

Q: Car filling up with water when it rains

Depending on where the water is located you could have a leak in a weatherstrip seal on a door or trunk, a windshield, or the rear glass. There are instances where the weather stripping on the body panels fail. There...

Q: Squeaky noise only when idle

Hi there. Usually a squealing noise coming from the engine compartment during idle is an indication of a loose or worn out belt or pulley. However, it can also be a transmission issue if it's low on transmission fluid or...

Q: Q: Car making whining noise

You likely either have a belt tensioner pulley noise or a power steering noise (based upon experience). Either choices are common, but the car should be properly diagnosed before replacing parts and wasting money. A qualified technician, such as one...

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